Fitness and Athletics Center, Claremont McKenna College

New Campus Center: Located at Claremont McKenna College, 40 miles east of Los Angeles, this 100,000 sf Fitness and Athletic Center includes a flexibly configured 2,000 seat arena for varsity games and special events, varsity locker rooms, extensive recreational facilities, and administrative offices. The main goal for the project was to create a new communal center for the campus – an active, light-filled set of spaces that would encourage strong social ties, teamwork, and a sense of school spirit through healthful and enjoyable athletic activities.

Compact Form: The project’s compact form contributes to a dynamic, interactive human environment and allows its large program to sit on relatively tight site. The varsity gym sits at the geographic heart of the structure, surrounded on three sides by seating and supporting program. The recreation gym sits on the second floor, hovering over the weight room and fitness studio.

Interior Streets: The void of the main gym is surrounded by a series of wide, interior “streets” and stairs. These streets emanate from a plaza-like double-height lobby and lead to other important elements in and around this facility.

Views/Transparency: From different parts of the building, dramatic views can be had of the nearby San Bernardino Mountains, the pool, the track, and the various athletic fields. Inside, the generous use of glazed walls invites use of all the facilities, especially the fitness center, the weight room, and both gyms.

Sustainability: The building has been designed to obtain LEED Platinum status. Among other strategies, the plans include highly efficient mechanical systems, rooftop photovoltaic and solar hot water panels, maximum use of skylights combined with automated dimming systems, and solar shading correctly adjusted for each orientation.

Iconography: The dynamic, sculptural form of the building suggests the athletic activities that go on inside of it. Its cladding of colored, perforated metal panels likewise allude to the breathing, perspiring skin of an exercising person.